Solomon Islands Skink

The Solomon Islands skink (Corucia zebrata) is an arboreal species of skink endemic to the Solomon Islands. It is the largest known extant species of skink. Other common names for this species include the prehensile-tailed skink, monkey-tailed skink, giant skink, zebra skink, and monkey skink.

The Solomon Islands skink is completely herbivorous, eating many different fruits and vegetables including the pothos plant. It is one of the few species of reptile known to function within a social group or circulus. Both male and female specimens are known to be territorial and often hostile towards members not a part of their family group.

Corucia is a monotypic genus, containing a single species. However in 1997 it was determined that there are two subspecies of the Solomon Islands skink: the common monkey-tailed skink (Corucia zebrata zebrata) and the northern monkey-tailed skink (Corucia zebrata alfredschmidti). Among other variances, the northern skink is smaller and has darker eyes with a black sclera.

Extensive logging is a serious threat to the survival of this species. Consumption for food by indigenous Solomon Islanders and excessive pet trade exports has affected wild populations. Export of this species from the Solomon Islands is now restricted and the animal is protected under CITES appendix II.